how does this hit you for a map, OP?

and because "aim for that town just near the river forks above the pointy mountain" might confuse people, here's a modernised version with grid references, which should make it easier to run gamewise.

Known religions:
Gaia (Earth-Mother) Goddess of Farmers
Coin Father, Patron god of Traders
Iron Prince, War God.

Known civilizations:
The Kingdom of Pendra (us)
The Empire City-States (Loose federation all owning allegiance to the Empire, brink of war)
The Inner Empire (Shrouded in secrecy, but known to have an army like none have seen. Tech-wise more advanced then us. Brink of war)
The Norselands (Vicious Raiders that often come for the other people of the world, pillaging is their game)

People we know:
Duke Hamish, Our uncle once removed, he loves us.
Count Jenniker, noble to our north, has a reputation for being cruel to his peasants, likes us.
Count Urs, noble to the south, known to be very greedy. Married his daughter to us, no heirs to his 'throne'.

Family:
Lady Isandra (Wife to us and mother to our Son)
Our Son (He has yet to be named)
<-- Heraldry

Pending matters:
Start training troops. (War is to start in the Summer)
Acquire new arms and armor.

Quests:
A Father is close to the end... (Mandatory)
Leoric & Farran (Optional)
- Secret Quest -

>>15780087
>>15780107

wow how do you made it?

>>15780087
>>15780107

Wow..

That's amazing really.

Thank you.

This is for you!

rolled 4 = 4

Given that we're about to be at war, might it be useful to have a section in the start of season post with:

Troops numbers
(Home & Abroad)
Status in terms of supplies.
Proximity to any enemy.

As well as possibly a rough population count in State of the Realm.

oh, and a reference for what the original was:


now, for the meantime.
training troops. Tech.

what's the world like in terms of technology? No firearms, presumably? how about for seige cannon etc?
Crossbows, known, unknown? Armour, you've mentioned plate, would you say closer to simple 13th/14th C knights, or the fully-covering plate of the late 15th / 16th C?

(working out tactics and what's available techwise will be useful to know)


oh, and map was just lots of photoshop layers. 1/2 a Gb of them... I did a draft version with names too, for the city states but decided that was intruding into OP's creative realm too far. :)

Current state of the Army:
The Noble Dream-team (Mounted or Dismounted)
40 Yeomen (Will be armored in Mail, armed with Spears/Shields and Bows & arrows)
40 wardens (Armored in Leather, armed with axes, bows & arrows)
60 Men at Arms (Armored in Leather, armed with spears/axes & shields)

So 80 bowmen and 60 Inf. Or 140 Inf. (This is a very sizable amount, advise lowering this after war (though war will no doubt 'lower' it itself)

Training:
Yeomen, some have received Swordsmen training, there was only one promising contender amongst them and he's been promoted to Baron amongst the Yeomen. He answers only to Farran.

Kestin, Leader of the Wardens received the other sword that we claimed before. He is obviously still leader of the Wardens.

can we train the troops in winter or is the wheather too nasty for marching and the like?

has anything been done with the depleted iron mine in the hill our castle is on? cuz that just screams secret passage+underground vaults/storage, would be perfect for food storage

rolled 15 = 15

Majority ranged with a small spear (phalanx would be awesome, but noone seemed keen last time) contingent to protect them. I'm thinking a force which either fights from behind the rest of our army (minimise losses) or fights in British Army-esque square formations, except for without muskets. It'll lose some of the impact, but it's a pretty solid formation which would let us focus on ranged.

>>15780230
What?!
We were training those two kids of 15 and 16 before in swordsmenship
And what about those other two boys were wear teaching to read and write?

>>15780178

Already posted the Army numbers above.
Supplies: Good Currently, a supply train is ready to be built during the Spring.
Enemy Activity: Reports of Brigands on the roads (Common problem)

Current Population:
580 Men, Women at Children.
160 Men of Fighting Age and Arms conscripted.
100 More Militia.
The rest are spread out across the Village.

>>15780208

Tech:

Kingdom of Pendra:
Armor wise:
Chain-Mail, Leather, Early 13th Century armor.
Weapon Wise:
Spears, Swords, Axes, Longbows (Only us), Crossbows (Remnant from Empire).
Siege Engines:
Catapult, Balista, Siege Tower, Ladders, Rams, Trebuchet.

Empire City-States:
Very Diverse.
Some are more Infantry based, others Cavalry. Whilst others might harry your War-effort with probing attacks.

Inner Empire:
Armor:
Mail, Leather, Plate 13th and 16th century. Depends on which troops.
Weaponry:
Think Roman Legion, only instead of the Lorica Segmentata, they are armored in full plate.
Backed up by Crossbowmen, Light Cavalry and War Weapons.

Norsemen:
Wild Raiders:
Dressed in whatever the could scavenge, armed usually with Axes.

There are 'rumors' from the Empire that they might have such technology. But nothing's sure yet.

You could name some of the city states, truly. As far as names. I'm borrowing as well as just plain making stuff up. So the more names to choose from the Better.

Is there any way to contact the Noresemen? If we're going to attack the Empire, we'll want back up. Seeing as they already attack the Empire (and us) it should be possible to convince them to ally with us

>>15780230
if the wheather permits, practice marching and battle formations. spear walls, volly fireing arrows mabey fire arrows(can we make those?) also if possible try to have a few men trained in first aid, we dont want to lose half our men after a brief skirmish because nobody knows how to dress a wound. on that note we should prepare our baggage train, tough well made wagons, sturdy tents, cook pots for the men and basic medical supples and so on. we need to get this organised, if we mess it up we could be fucked without fighting a single battle

also entrenching, lets rip off the romans and train our men to spam camp and battlefield fortifications.

>>15780331

You could, but.. seeing as they aren't unified, they'll not want to go against the Empire with just one tribe. They have enough trouble on the border with getting 'evicted'.

>>15780253

Storage place has been acquired there, I thought I had fixed that. Though probably didn't type it in during the copy-paste fase.

Currently full of food and such.

>>15780294

I decided against introducing more named characters, we have enough as it is. Just to avoid any more confusion.

As for the two boys learning how to read and write, they are still being taught by both Kalistra and Alvin now.

rolled 13 = 13

Aslo...A Father is close to the end...

Let's do this shit. I assume someones about to die, let's get him to leave all his stuff to us in his will.

>I have no idea what this quest is about

map with names.

Ok, should'nt be too difficult to work out crossbowmen, for weapons, at least. no firearms tech is a comfortable baseline point.

I'm going to suggest we make waggons, with a 1 1/2 inch (4-5cm) walls, with arrow-slots in them, one side which folds down, and with a roof that's angled to one side. these can be used to transport soldiers, injured, and supplies... and form circles to have mobile defences against counter-attack.

rolled 11 = 11

>>15780396

If our engineer could make a working crossbow, would we be able to mass produce and train with them before we march?

>>15780351

You'll probably have little trouble in drilling your men in digging entrenchments and the like, at least the Yeomen.

Remember you've fought as part of the Empire once, part of their 'training' bled over into the Kingdom of Pendra.

The Weather isn't too fierce this winter, so you could easily train your men.

Well in order to learn first-aid you'd have to acquire a Medicus, you could perhaps find one within Duke Hamish' city of Highhall.

Also Fire arrows are a gogo. The Baggage train & everything that goes with are already ordered from Highhall everything will be here during the Spring.

>>15780396

You could make those Wagons, your craftsmen are skilled enough.

>>15780394

With Lobo besides you, the wolf hound's nose nuzzling the ground, you walk into your audience chamber. You spot Lady Isandra holding your Son, his hand reaches for you and grabs your finger.

You smile gently at him and rub his head, in the lap of your wife you spot a bit of parchment, asking what it is you see a few tears in her eyes. "My Father..", she whispers back, giving the parchment your eyes scan it.

Apparently he's begged his daughter to return home to spend her last days with her father, he has the blood cough. From the note of her father's Medicus the man is nearing the end of his natural life.

A. Allow your wife to go.
B. Go in her stead.
C. Forbid her to go, stating that she has to look after your son (Who still needs a name)

We should probably send some spies to determine how well prepared the empire is for a surprise attack.

>>15780427
my thought exactly.

bowmen are'nt going to be any use against troops in 15/6th C armour, so we're going to have to get crossbowmen, or be thinking laterally.

one approach would be using squares of 4 wagons, linked together and with wheels locked to prevent movement. we can get a blacksmith to make a 40ft iron chain with spikey links. when it gets into a battle, we link up two squares, and use the chain drawn up between them. that then gets pulled up as horsemen approach, so there's a line between each square, so any horseman trying to ride inbetween gets the legs of their horse torn out from under them. hopefully, one start to evening the balance in our favour.

each wagon should be filled with archers/crossbowmen, plus 3-4 yeomen with polearm, or flails, to beat down on anyone attempting to storm the walls of the wagon and climb in.

(wagons of course have a folding flat wall that drops down on the wheel side, to prevent sappers getting in under the wagon body)

this way, when they do turn, we've got an advantage of defences they should;'nt expect.

it worked for the Hussites in bohemia inthe 1430's.

>>15780427

You could train the Men at Arms with those weapons, though the men already trained in the craft of the Longbow won't be happy to give up their already learned craft.

Also he can create a Balista, he can definitely create a Crossbow. (Prox. Range: 350 - 400 yards) Longbows (400 - 450 yards (deadly to plate wearers 250 yards)

>>15780458

Who?

rolled 20 = 20

>>15780447
A. There might be some tasty inheritance.

Also:
http://www.google.co.uk/search?sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&q=if+you+were+a+medieval+knight+in+a
+low+fantasy+setting+what+would+you+call+your+first+son%3F

I'm going with Angeles, because the first result is some kind of LA based magazine.

>>15780483
you got some mighty asspulled longbows there to kill plate users reliably at 250 yards

>>15780483

K.

Altering Longbow ranges:
max range 270.
Plate penetrating range 1-fiddy (sound right?)

Angeles. Okay. Everybody like this?

Map with city names on it.

(yes, the City-states have a Princess Bride reference. you said you were dutch, OP, so I was thinking of the Guilder... and that logically means having Florin too.)
so therefore the rest of the states are named after other medieval coins.
Inconceivable!

>>15780447
A. And maybe our son should go as well? Let the old man see his grandson one last time before he dies?

>>15780447
Fucking D.
ALVIN! Get your authority hat, i'm going out for a bit. Farren, if you'd like to accompany me, i'll be taking some Yeomen and wardens. if the two boys we'd trained are fighting fit, lets give them a chance, mail or plate and lances.

rolled 7 = 7

>>15780546

He's too young to know what's going on, and might get infected.

>>15780071


Vehk up in this bitch.

What'd I miss?

rolled 16 = 16

>>15780562

We've decided to defect to the Empire and have burnt down are whole town. It was decided on a coin toss because votes were tied, if you'd have been here earlier the quest could have been saved. As it is, you've missed everything. :P

>>15780546
if son and mother are fit to travel, the baby can be swaddled and transported.

will please the old man, certainly - might tell us if there's any skeletons in the cupboard to be afraid of.

>>15780553
ah, and the d means both of us going. A warrior maiden she is, but if just the news of it is enjoy to bring her to tears, we want to be there for her.
We've maids for a reason, and part of their job market is childcare.

>>15780542

Looks good.

And yes I am Dutch so thanks for the Guilder note.

>>15780562

We got Married, killed our Brother (Though the Empire totally did), got our king to go "BLOOD FOR THE BLOOD GOD" against the Empire. Oh and we had a Son called Angeles.

>>15780558
>>15780546

The boy is still little, he still needs mommy's milk.

>>15780537
Volley range of 400yd is fine.
Arrows don't penetrate plate very well if they're not specially made "needle" bodkins out of pretty decent steel. That is for pretty advanced full plate. Which nobody except nobles should have or else it's losing time.
Shitty iron breastplates though? 250 yards sounds decent enough.

>>15780585

So keeping that range system then.

>>15780579
>>15780577

Okay.

D. You both go and take the Boy.
E. You both go and leave the boy in the care of Magda (One of the Maids has become pregnant but hasn't given birth yet. Behind the scene dice rolls. Seriously, do you bribe dice-gods or what?)

>>15780447
I support all this training, the building of battle and baggage train wagons and the hiring of a medicus(not full doctor, specificaly for battle field injurys right?) to train and tend our men.

also let our wife visit her pa, if it would be appropiate accompany her with our son and some of our army(marching practice)

>>15780600
good to know we have a wet-nurse.

and probably a wedding soon, I'd expect. before the bump is too noticable.

D: both go, bring the boy, his father will be pleased. Just make sure the blood-cough is not easily transferrable to a child. he might have to see his child from the bed, not holding him.

rolled 4 = 4

>>15780620

D is fine.

>>15780600
Going with D as long as it doesn't block any Optional or side-quests.

>>15780483
I was thinking about sending some soldiers to join their army to gather information on weapons, soldiers condition, tactics etc... but there might be some difficulties.
> a language barrier?
> only one allowed in their army are local people

>>15780653
the local drooling yokels probably arent really up to being sent on bond-esque infiltration missions.

besides, they probably talk funny down Empire Way.
(and if the scale of the map is accepted, then the distance between Pendra and the empire capital is about the same as that between Berlin and Paris. language barriers are most likely)

Alright.

Gathering up your Men at Arms as well as Farran you place yourself and Farran at the head of the column as you ride off towards Count Urs' lands.

Sitting inside the carriage is your wife, holding the young child swaddled in clothes, Angeles seems like a healthy young boy. His eyes open and taking in the wide world.

As you ride into Count Urs' land, your troops behind some of the villagers look out at your force, as you ride up to the castle. It's intimidating four peaks clawing at the heavens, it almost seems built into the mountain which it is partially.

Riding into the courtyard you are quickly greeted by your Father-in-Law's Steward. The men are given quarter and you leave Farran once again within the confines of the keep.

You have more important business as you walk into Count Urs' chambers you smell the rank smell of him, a soft sob is choked back by Lady Isandra at the sight of him. While he always had a hawkish appearance, it's more evidence now then ever.

As you show the child of two blood-lines he coughs, some blood flowing from his lip. "..Well done Daughter..", he says, smiling tenderly at her before staring at you. Before he can talk another cough wracks his fragile body softly you urge your wife to leave.

As you stare at him you can feel his intellect at work, "You have given me your.. word too keep my Daughter as your wife.. should she birth you a child..", he coughs again, "You've done so.. no doubt.. your mind is most likely already..", he is interrupted by a drink of water, it stains red with blood, "... seeking new ways to earn money..", he coughs once again. "..But I am not dead yet.. and my Lands still belong too me.."

As you stare around the room you see that you are completely alone, you could of course.. facilitate his passing.

A. Do It.
B. Let him pass as Gaia has intended.

>>15780680
>>15780653

Very right.

The Empire (Inner) Talks a raped form of Latin.

The City-States have many different accents and their own languages, though the mostly talk the same Latin as the Empire.

The Kingdom of Pendra however hasn't been teaching their children the tongue, this was part of the first War (in which we broke free from the Empire).

So some of the older folks talk the Empire's Latin, but once again, accented. Oh and they'll know it's Pendran Latin.

As for Scale. That sounds good.

>>15780686
B.

there's being a bastard, and being a murderous bastard. and killing your father in law is one step too far.

B. Let him pass as Gaia has intended

>>15780686
>B. Let him pass as Gaia has intended.

The other choice would push as too far into asshole tier. Bad karma and all that.

>>15780686
"Urs, riches are a fine thing, and much can be done with wealth.
But a good father-in-law is beyond the wealth of kings or emperors. And in that, I have been given riches beyond avarice, that I wish could have been mine for longer."

B. Let him have some time for himself to think about his daughter and his grandson, before he dies.

>>15780753
>>15780731
>>15780719

"However.. I will grant you..", he hacks another blood-slime spit up and spews it into his cup, ".. my.. army.. I will pay for their.. upkeep. As well.. as my Knight.. Sir Harold. He.. will..", he coughs again. "Lead.. my men.. now please let me hold my grand-son..".

A. Allow him.
B. Tell him no.

> defected to the empire
> burnt our town

Christ, it's like an MMO where loads of goons joined and did retarded shit. I'm blowing this joint.

>>15780788
Let him hold his grandson
god dammit the man's dying

>>15780788
do we know how contagious the illness is?

if its not too horrible then yes let him hold his grandson

>>15780813

The Blood Cough usually comes only to men of age. (Not ours)

However.. whether it's contagious, there's no clear yes or no. Some children also catch it, even men of our constitution.

So... decide. It could prove bad, I will be rolling dice.

Uhm... I would allow him to hold him if Isandra is making sure he aint killing him with his grip.

>>15780808
Dying of an illness he could spread to the young child!
>>15780788
"I am sorry, but, the illness could pass to him as well. The sight of your grandson, healthy and happy, will have to be enough. Your daughter is a beautiful woman, and she is making an excellent mother. I'm proud to have known you count."

>>15780788
have we ever heard anything that the blood-cough is contagious? is it spread from sick to healthy, or is it something that only the old or infirm get before death?

if no story of it being passed from one to another has been heard, then do so.

if it is, then ask him:
"you have contagion, and he is still young. I would rather see my firstborn succeed me, not proceed me to the grave... do you insist?"

ask him to put a cloth over his mouth, to protect his grandson and out heir

>>15780833
answered me before I posted. >>15780855

Hand the child over. we cant swaddle the babe forever.

B. Tell him no.

But make sure you tell him nicely as possible

surely he would not want to risk his illness passing on to his grandson?

I guess it wouldnt hurt us to decline his wish...
>>15780836
Gonna eat my own words and vote for B

rolled 4 = 4

>>15780798

This is why you should never attempt sarcasm over the internet.

>>15780855
>>15780845
>>15780836
>>15780813
>>15780808

You decide to give him part of what he wishes, calling Isandra into the chamber again she sits besides her father on his bed. He props himself up slowly, then brushes a finger across the boy's head. "That.. will have to suffice..", he says tenderly before jerking his head away, coughing heavily.

Isandra pulls away from the bed, guarding Angeles from the cough, he smiles softly then closes his eyes. "I.. want to sleep..", he says before drifting away. His chest rising up and down slowly.

As you step out Isandra holds the boy between the both of you, he stares at his parents and grabs your clothes, Angeles' eyes wide and bright. You brush his head as well before walking away.

As you return home from your journey Isandra seems happier to have seen her father before his death.

Quests remaining:
Leoric & Farran (Optional)
- Secret Quest -

>>15780788
A.

>>15780892
Alright, let's do that Leoric and Farran Quest, then.

>>15780892
A "secret quest" you say?
Well since everything seems to be ticking over nicely, lets do that. But before that, lets go have a chat with the Medicae here and see if we can hire him when Urs snuffs it.

rolled 5 = 5

>>15780921

L&F could be fun.

>>15780892
That... didnt seem to be as threatening as it sounded. Of course it would be best to go pray (Gaia) , have our child and wife to be examined for illness and be rid of the clothes (burned) we had at Urs. And of course cleaned. Cant be to careful when talking about contageus disease.

Ensure that he is buried in full ceremony in the chapel, at the front of the altar.

with his death, the Line of Urs is ended, and his honour should not be forgotten lightly.

I propose that our son's second name be Urs. Angleo Urs, in honour of the lineage he's from. his arms should be those of both lines, quartered. In time, this will be his stronghold, and the people will remember hte name of Urs for a long time.

once the funerary actions are done, we return to Jalek, but not before instructing Urs' staff to perform an accouting of the household, and a domesday record of the county, so we know how much it is worth, and the numbers we now have under our order.

>>15780926

He is bound to Urs' House.

After Urs dies, he'll go to the Heir of Urs' estates.

Ring any bells on who that might be?

Though when he dies.. .. well.

Also Secret Quests are only opened after the other quests are completed (properly).

>>15780921

As you step back into the castle you are immediately greeted to Leoric who pats your shoulder then grabs his son as he tries to walk away. "We need to talk".

As you take them both away Leoric stares at Farran for a moment and then at you, "My son needs to be Knighted, Jenniker's boys have been as well as Sir Harold, Count Urs' squire", he sighs though as he turns towards Farran, "However he has been unsure of approaching you so I have done it for him", he eyes you closely. "He will however not become of House Tarkin as I have, I see greater aspirations for my boy. He is a far better fighter then myself at his young age and I cannot teach him any more, I hope you will release him as a Free Knight to bind himself to whatever house he wants".

A. Allow Farran this (he seems unsure)
B. Keep him as your Squire.
C. Ask Leoric to leave and speak to Farran alone.

>>15780966
also inspect Urs' armour.
it is most likely that the armour is old-fashioned, and not as effective as the newest armour. If so, I suggest that above his grave in the chapel, his helm and sword are suspended, for all to see.

it shows the prowess of the man, and keeps him in their memory.

its most likely a well-equipped man such as him will have several swords. the newest of those should be taken back with us, and kept in storage in the armoury. Mke it known, that when our son is of age, it will be presented to him as his birthright.

>>15781013
didn't one duke already call dibs?
I say A

>>15781013
Wasn't Farran called by Duke Hamish?
Would this cause any problems with that?

>>15781013
C

>>15781013
option C
lets see what the young lad wants

but after we chat to the squire, chat to Leoric again

rolled 3 = 3

C.

We'll talk him round to joining us, if he leaves now we'll probably have to kill him later. (Mwahaha)

>>15780966
>>15781040

Keeping this in mind when he dies. He's not dead just yet.

As for Wealth and such:

Count Urs' Realm:

Pressed into the Mountainside is the County of Urs, a wild river tears through the north of the County, it's bridged as well.

Iron mines are dug into the mountain, the main source of revenue as farms have difficulty catching ground, (bad soil), the castle is a master-piece in terms of engineering.

He has an army of 120 Inf and 40 Mounted men. (10 Knights, 30 'light cavalry)

His entire force is armored in chain-mail.

The Count's personal effects:
The Sword of House Urs. (We have one of House Tarkin)
The Armor of Urs (Comes with a bear-pelt that somehow doesn't seem to wear with age.)
Graymare (His Destrier)

>>15781058
>>15781046

Yes he was. Though of course, if you Knight him that becomes void. Knights aren't callable, squires are.

>>15781077
>>15781059
>>15781083

Calling Leoric away he leaves for a moment, speaking to his Son before he does.

Taking a seat you urge Farran to do the same, a cup of wine is poured as you give it to him. Speaking to him he seems sure, almost cocksure of his abilities, though you've seen, and felt, them he's a better rider then you are. As swordsmen you are matched, but then again you have trained since children together.

He seems interested in the world beyond your County, but seems to be unsure in wishing to leave home, perhaps there is something keeping him here?

A. Question him Further
B. Decide to ignore it and allow him his wish.

inb4 he knocked up the whoever is knocked up atm

A

rolled 2 = 2

>>15781091

Awesome. Cavalry.

If we're merging armies, how about giving Farran control of Cavalry in the force? We keep control of the bulk (the infantry) but it's a position of power and influence, and it'll get him valuable experience and partially appease his father.

rolled 18 = 18

Also, A.

A.

>>15781170

Sir Harold of Count Urs' house leads the force given by house Urs.

No dice. Dice.

>>15781169
>>15781138

As you urge him to divulge more he starts to talk about a wild night after your brother's funeral. You gleam that he is indeed the father of the Maid who's pregnant, he seems unsure to leave her. He tells you that it is not love, but seeing Angelo Urs (your son, thanks for that name btw), has opened his eyes to seeing his own child. Albeit it one he had with a commoner.

A. Ask him to reconsider what his father wanted, we would Knight him but he'd bound himself to house Tarkin. (Gonna need a high D-roll for this)
B. Allow him his wish.

>>15781214
option C
tell him we understand but he should do what he thinks best. If he goes then we will watch over the child
If he stays then we will knight him as one of our house

>>15781138
You were right....

Well the good thing about what Farran did is that our son will soon have a friend to play with.
and C.

>>15781264
>>15781285

Sitting down with the young man he calls his father in again, Leoric strides in, almost cocksure attitude in his step. As he stares at Farran it falters though, "My Lord, I offer my sword in vassalage, I offer my life to your House, I will bind myself to your home and to your children. And if it graces you, I will claim the child of Maid Hanna as my own".

Leoric seems ready to explode, ".. Fool boy, you could have been a Knight beyond reproach, you could have rode with the KING", he growls, and backs away from you both. "You tricked him didn't you, just like your brother", your eyes narrow. -Secret Quest unlocked- 'Someone Knows'

Farran stares at you then at his father, a questioning look in his eyes.

How do you explain yourself.

Leaving this open.

>>15781342
give a speech about what it is to be a man and the driving ambition that comes with it (Just buying some time to think of a solution)

rolled 19 = 19

>>15781342

You dare accuse me of tricking my brother? You who would have your son abandon his child. You who cares only for glory, but not for happiness. You don't understand family, so do not seek to lecture me on it. My family was snatched away from me, and I will not allow that to happen to others, especially if they do not wish it.

Farran, leave us. I'll hear your fathers fables and lies, but I wouldn't want you to have to see your father disgrace himself. I'll give him a hearing, just like I listened to you. But I will not let him disgrace me, my family or my families honour.

>>15781389
This

>>15781389
don't use this
EVER

>>15781342
"There are stories which it is wise not to spread, and wiser still that half-truths be dismissed wholly. "
"what you refer to is one such folly."

"Farran. If you take this course your path may be set. You may yet change your mind. You have it in you to stand, not just a knight, but rise to be a lord of note, with such martial skill. but a strong sword is not the only skill a lord must learn. You must know judgement - to act with wisdom.

Though your actions are what the heart may want, to follow them may be most unwise... I do not bind you to your oath yet. Think about this future."

>>15781389

Farran turns to you, then back towards his Father. "No", he says solidly, then takes a step towards you, "I have just sworn myself to you", he stands besides you, "Now I will hear what you have done. I will judge you and decide if I choose poorly".

Leoric's eyes sparkle as his wolfish grin comes forth, "He killed his brother.. or more aptly, his Wolf did it. A wild beast, your brother came here, released from the Empire. Allowed to return home, allowed to claim his County. But you sicked your dog on him, you had it tear out his throat", Leoric spits the ground, you see Farran's eyes narrow at you. "Is this.. true, did you commit.. fratricide?"

>>15781421
This. Do it.

>>15781389
This speech might make us fight Leoric, I say we listen to him instead of speaking our mind. We havent done anything wrong, only defended ourself.

>>15781437

Responses?

>>15781437
what the fucking fuck?
Are you shitting me?

Call in the fucking guards and clap that man in chains. He speaks treason. Strip him of all titles and privileges and exile him from our lands under pain of death.

Tell Farran that when a man takes an oath, he keeps that oath NO MATTER WHAT. Leoric has gone back on his word, and his honor, due to personal greed. Leoric has shamed himself and his son.
Tell Farran that the offer for knighthood under House Tarkin is his if he wants it. Let him know that the realm will soon know Leoric as only a traitor, and the son of a traitor may have a hard time finding work in the kingdom.
Offer Farran a knighthood under house tarkin, and the generalship position of our house. Make him swear an oath of loyalty for life. What he does with his son is his business.

>>15781490
furthermore:
> I will judge you and decide if I choose poorly

This is fucking laughable. A commoner judging his Lord? A Lord that has been a steadfast friend to his father, a Lord that has ruled with compassion and justice? A Lord who has raised this paltry county from the depths of poverty, and risked his life to save it's peasants?

The youth is crass and should be punished for that statement, but punished at a later date. For now, remind the boy that words spoken out loud live forever, and that he should be careful what he says if he wants to be a knight.
Tell Farran that he should learn from his father's example, about what happens when you let personal feelings interfere with your duty and your oath.

rolled 15 = 15

Fuck this shit.

Kill everyone, this whole "Let's talk things out" thing we've been rolling well keeps making problems.

Hey bro, let's talk this out...Suddenly your wolf eats him.

>>15781437

"As I say... it is unwise to speak of half-truths that you know naught of.

I am no kinslayer.

But my brother's death was the doing of my hound. He entered my bedchambers. Freed from the empire, to seize this county, and to turn from Penda, to ally with the Empire, and so form a beachhead this side of the border mountains.

I refused my brother this, and called him a traitor, and he struck me down, made his intent to reclaim by force.

and my hound alone, saved my life, where all guards and walls were lacking.

I mourn my brother. not for his death, but that he would commit treason against the Kingdom, to buy his freedom. He would have betrayed you all to the very men who have slain so many of the people of this village.

That, I mourn for.

And now you know the truth that none other bar my hound knows. And I bind you to the silence of an oath, for if this treason were to be known, that kin would betray kin, then every man would be more apt to look behind for threats, than ahead.

That, I cannot bear to happen.

Do you understand me, Leoric, that you are oathsworn upon this? Do you, Farran, understand this also?"

>>15781490
I feel the same way... how dare he talk as he knows what happened?!? He should be thrown into jail. Cut from honor for speaking such lies.

>>15781514

Bro.

Leoric and Farran are nobles, only minor. They don't hold titles, though they are nobles.

>>15781490
>>15781514

Also who agrees with this?

>>15781490
don't do this ffs
tell them the truth: your brother came back with a clouded mind. He was paranoid and aggressive, and your dog attacked when you tried to calm your brother down. So you had to think fast. Rest is history.

>>15781523
or maybe this. it's true to a fashion... enough to pose for a cover story

>>15781527
.. you know that because of our brother, we are going to war with our Kings support? ... the truth will hurt ... so much..

rolled 12 = 12

Yeah, telling the truth is worse than my idea, but only just. If so much of our credibility wasn't invested into the lie it might work, but at this point we can't.

>>15781342
"I tricked, no one, I only left an offer on the table for your son. He wished to make you proud of course, he wants to see more of just my county, but, he wants to be responsible for the child that may come in the future."

"As for, my late brother. I want to be honest, at least with you my tutor, and my friend. I dont know, who it was that Really stepped through the doors and into my hall, but he was mad, with hunger, from torture, i have no idea. He brought forth a story through his madness, that he had been captured, rather then killed, and ransomed to my father. My father, it seemed, refused to pay. So when he passed, it came to me to rule, thinking i was the last of my line."

Turn your back, you should not be seen crying infront of your subjects. "He had come for his seat, and i knew it was his right, but, he would not listen to reason, he would not calm himself, and he reached for his blade before i could say another word. I did not raise my hand in anger to him, i held his blade in his scabbard, but, it was then, that Lobo, under the table, leapt. Before... before i could act, the deed was done. The wolf of House Tarkin was alone once again."

>>15781527
I already changed in
>>15781540
just forgot to link the back post

>>15781554
Youre idea looks good as a plan B if they seem unwilling to keep it a secret.

>>15781523

Farran stares at you then draws his sword before kneeling before you, his head pressed against the cross of his blade as he sits before you. "I believe you my lord, my oath remains as strong as before. I am your Oath-bound man", Leoric however doesn't seem to regard your tale with the same measure of truth.

He however does nod, "I honor.. your honor my Lord. I trust that what you say is truth..", he narrows his eyes before sealing his vow again as well. As he gets up from his knees Leoric takes his son and walks away.

(Good enough outcome, Leoric knows that if his honor is blackened so will Farran's be and an oath-breaker's son will rise to no heights at all, however good a swordsman he is)

Okay quests wrapped up:

What do you want done before end of season and before Spring rolls around?

rolled 4 = 4

>>15781583

There was talk of crossbows, did we ever get this done?

>>15781604

Yes, your Men at Arms are training with Crossbows, will be ready by summer if everything goes as planned.

>>15781583
more training for our men, and grab some one to teach/provide medical treatment so as to keep them from dieing of thier wounds even if they win the battle, also wagons

>>15781583
I . . . . kinda want Leoric fucking ended.

Really, I mean, lets think about this
- Farran is just as good a soldier
- Farran has a vested interest in protecting us (his new son)
- Farran is young, and looking at a long career. Leoric is aging.
- Leoric tried to out us for personal gain. You can't just forgive that kind of stuff.
-We know that Leoric isn't happy with his son serving us, and we know that Leoric is willing to do something stupid to change that.
-We know that Leoric still holds a position of power and has access to us personally.

So we have Leoric, an aging, untrustworthy minor noble. And Farran, a young and talented man, with all the martial wisdom of his father, a proven skill in arms, and a young son to look out for, who has just sworn an oath to us.

What do we need Leoric for, again? Do we really need 2 champions?

>>15781583
drill the troops till they're as sharp as they can get.
equipment needs preparations.

What're other people's opinions of the Hussite-style war wagons from >>15780396 >>15780482 as tactics?

Logistically, we need to ensure that Urs' lands are well-managed, so we need to ensure his steward is giving us good information. Was an accounting of the wealth of the feif done?

>>15781583
Damn it damn it.
I hate typeing out a good post and then it took too long.

>>15781629
Patience.

far better that leoric dies a hero's death in battle, than a suspicous wound in his home.

>>15781629
True.
So.. poison, disease or mortally wounded? We cant actually have him being to close to other Lords so it would be best to end his life.

>>15781638

Sorry bro.

>>15781631
Yes here. >>15781091

>>15781629

I don't know. Do we?

We could always cancel his vow, though Farran won't like this. If a Knight is released of his Vow and it's in this way, he needs to leave the County and never return.

So how do you approach this problem?

>>15781629
You would throw aside the ties of friendship, the respect of your teacher, and the connection of father and son?
If we get rid of Leoric, our teacher for likely Half His Life, then we're going beyond the tide of evil and our son will grow up in a world of treachery.

>>15781657
We don't, yet. We have a war to fight, and wars are messy business. Not everyone comes home. Plus we need everyone we can get right now, especially skilled combatants.

rolled 15 = 15

Yeah, I thought about killing Leoric, but I didn't want to come across all herp derp blood for the blood god.

If he dies at home though, Farran might get suspicious, best to take him on campaign, if the enemy don't get him, an accident can.

>>15781612
excellent. Crossbowmen in a wagon with narrow ports to fire from is nice and effective. Wagons made all the same length and width: 5-6m long, 2.5m wide with 4-5 small firing holes in the side wall, and one in the end. 10 crossbowmen to each wagon. when a man fires, he steps out from the port, and re-cranks the bow. one of the men steps into the space, and aims and looses his bow, steps out, and is replaced by the other man, who has reloaded. in emergencies, a small set of benches in the walls can be stood upon, so a man can look out above the waggon-top, and so all men can volley fire at once.

Also drill firing in formation, two rows, one kneeling to load, while the 2nd row fires, and then standing up while the 2nd row loads.

>>15781671
Not to mention wars can change an outlook a person has, depending on what happens.

Alright so training. Training and more training.

Anyone up for getting a Medicus now, or waiting til Urs kicks the bucket?

>>15781629
And another thing! Leoric doesnt seem to be going for Personal gain, he is only trying to ensure his son gets the Most out of life, and when a man who he thinks is a Kinslayer just to get an older brother out of the way is standing in the way of that, YES, a Father will get angry and say things he'll regret.

So what was your answer? Lie right to his damn face and not putting into account the Trust and friendship you would have of him already.

rolled 4 = 4

>>15781723

If Urs doen't die in Spring, we'll appropriate one from somewhere.

>>15781723
he's still clinging on?
tenacious bastard.

Yes, we'll need a medicus. having two cant do us any harm, unless they both decide to cover us in leeches.

The current season is Spring.

The Current state of the realm:
Safety: Excellent (No worries here this season)
Morale: Excellent (The peasants couldn't be happier with you)
Farming:None (Spring, sowing.)
Housing: Good (Enough housing.)
Gold: Moderate (You managed to hold your gold over the course of the winter, the materials for the crossbows were easily made and found.)
Wood-cutters:Good (Business as Usual)
Marble: Moderate (Production starting up again)
Iron Vein (Preliminary tests being done)

Important People:
Leoric (Weapon-master, he is aging, 40-ish, but is still a brute on the battlefield and has been your tutor in weapon skills)
Magda & her Maids (The caretakers of the castle, only five remain)
Karl (Spokesman of the villagers)
Jehenna (Karl's wife and Priestess of Gaia (earth mother))
Farran (Your squire and Leoric's son)
Kestin (Leader of the Wardens, short stocky fellah)
Kalistra (Smart woman from Village, daughter to Karl and Jehenna)
Ulri (Priest of Gaia) (And beekeeper!)
Alvin (New Steward, young)
Zarkin (Engineer)

Layout of the Land:
The castle is situated atop a hill, to the east of your lands forests ride up to the mountains in the east, the forests are filled with game. A road has been logged to reach the valuable stone known as Marble.

There is a road leading through your territory, it crosses two rivers, both of them are bridged and guarded by towers and are tolled, (low toll), trade is going strong, a small temple to the earth goddess Gaia is the main sight in the village. Along with the newly made Inn Gaius' Rest, a palisade wall is being put up around the village as well, linking up the hill and with the Castle.

Known religions:
Gaia (Earth-Mother) Goddess of Farmers
Coin Father, Patron god of Traders
Iron Prince, War God.

Known civilizations:
The Kingdom of Pendra (us)
The Empire City-States (Loose federation all owning allegiance to the Empire, brink of war)
The Inner Empire (Shrouded in secrecy, but known to have an army like none have seen. Tech-wise more advanced then us. Brink of war)
The Norselands (Vicious Raiders that often come for the other people of the world, pillaging is their game)

People we know:
Duke Hamish, Our uncle once removed, he loves us.
Count Jenniker, noble to our north, has a reputation for being cruel to his peasants, likes us.
Count Urs, noble to the south, known to be very greedy. Married his daughter to us, no heirs to his 'throne'. Close to Death.

Family:
Lady Isandra (Wife to us and mother to our Son)
Our Son (Angelo Urs)

Pending matters:
Finalize training, acquiring of goods etc.

Quests:
Death of a Father (Mandatory)
A Grieving Daughter (Mandatory)
- Secret Quest -

>>15781847
Well, time to check out the now dead old fart. Sword for our son, helm&sword over his grave, all that shit.

>>15781847
just a quick question about something I may have missed:
Why does our son bear his maternal surname? Wouldn't he be Angelo Tarkin?

>>15781847

((Sorry i'm late :D))

Death of a Father (Mandatory)

I think we should start with this, seeing as how it might work in our favor.

rolled 20 = 20

>>15781879

Agreed. Plus before he's dead we can't deal with grief.

>>15781847
Wow, I step out for two hours and shit nearly hits the fan.

Anyway, go with Death of a Father.

Current state of the Army:
Lord Tarkin
Farran and Leoric.
40 Yeomen (Will be armored in Mail, armed with Spears/Shields and Bows & arrows)
40 wardens (Armored in Leather, armed with axes, bows & arrows)
60 Men at Arms (Armored in Leather, armed with spears/axes & shields, as well as Crossbows.)

Count Urs' Troops, led by Knight Harold:
He has an army of 120 Inf and 40 Mounted men. (10 Knights, 30 'light cavalry)

His entire force is armored in chain-mail.


Training:
The men have been trained in Volley fire for the longbows, they have spent some short time firing from arrow slits (done from castle in preparation for wagon training)

They have also trained in shield-wall tactics, designed to hold an enemy.

Currently being implemented:
Crossbow training for M-a-A
Wagon Training for M-a-A
Camp-Making.


Supplies Good, Supply train being but together during Spring.
Enemy Activity: Nothing. (Troubling?)

Current Population:
580 Men, Women at Children.
160 Men of Fighting Age and Arms conscripted.
100 More Militia.
The rest are spread out across the Village.

>>15781875
see this
>>15780966

Send messengers with sealed letters to Pendra asking when they intend to march, and where to muster...

Meanwhile, make sure the peasants are preparing the fields.

We have stonemasons who have been left without specialised work with the marble quarry mothballed. I wouls suggest we start looking at wether they can be put to skilled work on one of the following: improved walls/gatehouse on the bridges for the road, or to think about preparing the roadway for better travel. we might have an army marching through soon, and worse, armies marching towards us in attack.

meanwhile, let us prepare for the death of old Urs, and his daughter's response too..

>>15781903

Enemy Activity: Nothing. (Troubling?)

I think sending out scouts would be a very good idea right about now, don't want to be caught with our pants down.

>>15781903
>Lord Tarkin

I hope we'll look like this if we manage to get to 60.

rolled 11 = 11

>>15781933

As well as this, send messengers out to all the nobles who'll be joining the campaign. Find out who's sending what. Also, what's our position on the chain of command?

>>15781899
>>15781895
>>15781879
>>15781865

As you walk the land, checking the sowing season and listening to some of the peasants meager tales. A rider comes to you, the heraldry is clear on his shield. He's a man of Urs, stopping the man he hands you a letter.

Scanning the paper your thoughts turn towards the new lands in your stead, your eyes turn towards the man, thanking him for his time to ride here and offering him a place within your hall. As you walk into the audience chamber you see Lady Isandra playing with your son whilst the young maid feeds Farran's son.

She stares at you and then spots the parchment, her eyes open as you nod softly. She sobs softly and starts to cry, she storms away towards her room leaving the young child for now.

A. Go to her first (Turns quest into Grieving Daughter)
B. Take a force and ride for the County of Urs to make arrangements
C. Send message ahead to the Steward instructing him to bury the man and try and persuade your wife to come along.

Ps. Your damn lucky your son saved his con-check.

>>15781949
no.
too many messengers, too much risk of one letter being intercepted. If we are to know what others have, then we will be told in the reply from Penda.

Huh, Lady Isara gave birth.

Well, we have our heir but I suggest trying our darndest to start another child before leaving for war. We have the heir, and we need the spare so our line doesn't die out if we do and our firstborn catches smallpox or something.

>>15781975
A

>>15781975

great. you've given her post-natal depression and a bereavment.
on the plus side, the boy seems to be healthier.

Go to her first. she is our wife, and I assume we're not of divorcing terms yet....

>>15781975
A
we're gonna take her to the funeral anyway, might as well deal with her here

rolled 18 = 18

>>15781975

We have to be there for the funeral, as does our wife.

Therefore A. Make her happy, then make her come.

>>15781975
>A. Go to her first (Turns quest into Grieving Daughter)
Love springs from a good marriage, blah blah. Best to be on good terms with our lady wife. Especially when going off to war for however many months or years we'll be gone and she'll be alone and lonely in the castle.

>>15781975
Go with A

>>15782002
>>15781999
>>15781996
>>15781989

As you enter your chambers you see your wife, she is clutching the sword that her father's steward had given her. You can see the blade's wicked edge gleaming in the spring light as she stares at it, the blade of House Urs. You speak softly as you approach her, telling her of love. You see her body wracked with sobs as she tosses the sword onto the bed.

"Why.. why must it be like this", she seems very much less like the strong Warrior Woman that you've grown to love, her hands clutch the rich cloth on your body as she sobs softly, "..why?", she pleads again.

Type a response. Giving it 15 mins.

Do your best.
>>15781977
>>15781949
>>15781933
>>15781939

Let me know what you want done.

Formalize it well.

As for where we are in the picking order, well as a vassal of Duke Hamish we'll be following him. We're a minor vassal of a smaller Duke.

>>15782018
i agree, A.
Maybe pick up some wooden practice swords. Help her though the grief with the side of her we havent gotten to see first hand. Let us met the warrior woman.

>>15782050
in which case, letter to Hamish, not Penda.

proper chain of command.
Make it clear in the letter that as this is our first campaign of war, we would be grateful for a summary of our position and expected duties.

Scouts toward the border would be sensible, but no further, unless in the guise of a trader trying to buy some goods.

>>15782050
Tight embrace.

"All who live must in the end go on a great journey at the end, it is simply the price of life. We grieve for the departed, but when that day comes it's time to remember them as they were. You loved your father, remember those times with him fondly and live on with the life he provided for you. He always wanted you to be happy, as do I. Mourn his passing and live on to carry his legacy into the future."

Then make gentle kissyface or tender huggings and such as appropriate.

>>15782050
wait, she's a warrior maiden, accomplished in arms and experienced in battle, who's confused about why people get sick and die?

Waaaaaiiiiiiiiiit a minute, is our wife wunna dem retahds?

>>15782050
This is the way of the world. we live, we die.
and in our son, the line lives on, my love. He bears your fathers name. in time, he will bear that sword.

We cannot change the fates of our ancestors, but we can shape the fates of our children. Together."

and just hold her and let her cry her eyes out.
ideally without her falling backwards onto the sword on the bed...

>>15782050
Try something about how she carries on his legacy like he wanted through our family and we're always here for her no matter what so she still has a family even with her father gone.

>>15782050
Gaia is both the bringer of life, and the bringer of death. Crops will grow, or they will wither, children will come of age, and the old will take ill and pass. It shows us, that even the great, the strong, perched in unbeatable fortresses, may fall ill. It is, an eventuality that teaches us the beauty of life, because it can also be gone so quickly.

Hold her tight.

Your Father lives a good long life, had a loving wife, and the most beautiful daughter i'd ever laid eyes on. Because of this, and your father's fondness for me, i was able to court that beautiful maiden, and bore fruit of the most brilliant and healthy baby boy. He died as any man would hope to, after a long life, with happy children, and grandchildren.

He loved you, I, love you.

Fade to black, Scene, Baby #2.

>>15782219
>Fade to black, Scene, Baby #2.
assuming spawn #1 is about 6 months, unlikely to happen for another 3 months, unless the wet-nurse is the only one breastfeeding him.

>>15782265
>unless the wet-nurse is the only one breastfeeding him
That was pretty typical in noble households, it was seen as unseemly for a noble lady to breastfeed as well as something that "ruined a woman's figure" and things like that.

>>15782294
depends on OP's vision of medieval, I suppose.

>/tg/: WWH40K, Swordbattles, Giant laser-carrying mechs, epic quests, and breastfeeding....

>>15782178

Did you have your parents die on you?

No. Then be quiet. Shit fucks you up.

>>15782186
>>15782145

As you comfort and hug her, telling her of your line living on she seems to calm down. Her body stops shaking after a while and you kiss her, as your lips break you see that she's calmed down.

(Success!)

Gathering a grand procession of troops and materials you head towards the County of Urs, meanwhile a pigeon flaps towards the city of Highhall with a request for instructions.

As you enter the County you see several peasants sobbing, it seemed he wasn't a harsh lord. A talk if made with Sir Harold and the Steward, they agree to take care of the County, together with Alvin to work things out. Bettering trade, food to them, iron to us.

Sir Harold also agrees to serve us in battle, giving us, more troops & some cavalry (finally)

The Funeral takes place a few days later, the ceremony is beautiful and your wife delivers a speech to the crowd before revealing your son. The lord Angelo Urs, the crowd smiles at the sight of him.

As the stone slab seals across the tomb of Urs and their last true blood-line seals itself away you are greeted with the cold finality that could have been your own house as well. The moment passes quickly enough and you return home.

As you enter the County of Tarkin you are greeted by a wagon train, food and weapons being loaded. Your Men At Arms training in the fields, hitting their targets well. Farran's commanding presence clear on them.

Kestin comes before you as you enter the audience chamber, it's clear he's been in battle as there's blood on his chain-mail. Some of it seems to be his, he breathes hard. "My lord..", the Medicus grunts as he pushes the short man up, his muscles making it hard, not to mention the mail. Finally he pads the wound with thick cloth, stopping the bleeding momentarily. ".. Empire scouts.. I think", he coughs, "..they were in the woods, they caught us by surprise.."

- Secret Quest -
Empire Scouts.

As he explains he tells then a full ten of the Wardens were attacked and killed, as he explains what happened Farran and Leoric march in, both are dressed in full combat gear. Kestin grins at them, then turns at you, "..My lord, there weren't many of their numbers"

How do you proceed?

>Angelo Urs
I hope Urs is a middle name or something, please don't tell me we gave up our bloodline's name.

>>15782323
>they were in the woods, they caught us by surprise..

Ring the bells. rouse the forces.

and if we dont already have one, we're damn well getting a bell-tower built on the castle, to be run in times of emergency, to muster the troops, and rouse the women and children to danger. If possible, we need to look at the distance to Urs' territory, and build watchtower beacons to light, in case of emergency.

rolled 16 = 16

>>15782323

Damage report on our men.
Numbers of enemy casualties.
Numbers of enemy still alive.

Keep an active garrison in the village at all times, and ~20 extra men on both the bridges.

Also, does Urs' land pass to us, are his stewards etc. now our vassals, or are they just a closely allied family?

If it's ours, could I ask for a rough map of his land?

>>15782347

We need to hunt them down and capture them of course, if we can feed the empire bad intelligence we can march them right into a deadly trap.

>>15782347
We move half of our army to their position, however only advance on them with a single detachment to engage, use the rest to reinforce if needed.
If we attack with too large a force, they will only retreat, and with a larger group, it would be hard to keep their pace and run them down.

>>15782370
second name, not surname.

full name would be Angelo Urs Tarkin of Jalek.

>>15782377

I'm going to have to do a detailed map from >>15780107
of Grid refs J7, J8, K7, K8, arent I?

>>15782377

Count Urs' land does belong to us now.

Map included.

His entire household belongs to us as well, so a merging of the Courts so to speak.

We lost 10 of our Wardens. They lost 2 of their numbers. (Maybe 30ish)

>>15782370

He is Angelo of House Tarkin of House Urs.

But he has Urs' last name to tie him to the land. No worries.

>>15782420

Wouldn't hurt. *Hopeful glance*

>>15782392
>>15782391

Gathering a full compliment of Men at Arms as well as the Wardens that survived the vicious ambush you march out into the wilds. Keeping low you spot one of the Empire soldiers.

There are only three others around, perhaps you can flank them if you're careful.

>>15782474

Take a good look around, if they're scouts they must be good at staying hidden and I don't want to jump on three and have 20 more come crawl up our ass.

carefully approach from the flank.

be ready to withdraw and regroup if there's any sort of counter-attack

>>15782474

Only four soldiers? It's a trap.

They want to lure us in.

Which means, that we are hidden from they're main forces, since they would have attacked already if they could.

Shoot the four, but don't close.

Have the archers take their time. We want this done quietly

>>15782474
in the words of admiral Ackbar: "Its a cross-dressing hermaphrodite!"
*ahem*

Consider a map probably done, maybe by tomorrow. Can I ask if you'd mind a mirrored version of >>15782474's map. Castle on the left side, village to the right? sort of works better with the internal logic of the largescale map, I think...

>>15782596
>>15782570
>>15782528

Taking your time you have your men skirt the edges, crossbows are angled towards them. A part of you is itching to sheath your sword into one of their chests, but you decide against it.

Instead the first bolts fly, dropping the men like bricks, as bodies fall several bolts let loose from within the forest. Luckily the heavily tree-trunk reinforced 'hill' your on shields you from the worst of it. As your men fire back you hear two more definite slumps only to spot a group at your left.

Luckily for you Farran is there, quick, efficient, clean he dispatches them. Axes slam into skulls and he cleaves a head from a man's shoulders, grabbing one of the crossbows each he leads the men at arms away.

A wild shouting charge, that never charged, later the other Empire soldiers burst from cover, an attempt to get clear and harass more of their number. But as they get clear bolts thud into chests, finally two remain. One man is bleeding out and he won't make it but the last one tosses his sword and his crossbow.

"Luguolo mihi", he breathes out, you grin as you step up to him. "Not just yet.."

(Means Latin for Kill me)

What do you do to him?

>>15782638

Go ahead man.

Seriously I'm happy people are doing this for me. Doing this in paint is like ladida *splotch splatch* while what your doing is impressive as hell.

>>15782651

Take his gear, find someone who can speak Latin and scout for a suitable ambush spot.

Also pump him for info.

>>15782651

So I assume we routed them, and that we only took two causalities? (Aside from the men lost earlier)

No. We will not kill him. He has knowledge that pertains to us.

For one: Why were we attacked right now? The Empire is technically at peace with us. Granted, they hate us, and we want to kill them, but they could have invaded at any time, so far as we know. Why now? Do they know about our plans?

Two. He knows the layout of the empire, we can use him to verify the other Imperial Captives map, and visa versa.

Three. We need to know they're holidays, tactics, and forces.

>>15782708
>we need to know they're holidays
say WHAT?

>>15782651
deliver the blow to the head.....

with the pommel of the sword. knock him out, and bring him back to the castle. have the men strip the dead of armour and equipment, but keep their clothing on.

Instruct them that the bodies are not to be buried. tomorrow, a garrison is to go up the road toward the Empire, and the bodies are to be left on pikes at the roadside.
I'm getting tired of their raiding parties. Time for them to see that any who invade will be left for the crows.

>>15782716
if they practice strict religious holidays we can exploit that.

Like washington and christmas (only example off the top of my head)

>>15780370
Why don't we send a small (but well-armed) group from tribe to tribe? Get them to ally with us and promise them better equipment and plunder, a la Game of Thrones.

>>15782716
I assume so that we can pull some sort of Tet offensive?
But that would only work if there has already been fighting, and we sign a temp cease fire.
The actual event also relied upon heavy use of spies and a large diversion attack.

It would be better to pull a D-Day.
Make it look like we are building up further south, send supply caravans that are empty, yet send your real troops and supplies by night to the north after the enemy has pulled their resources away.

>>15782701

Ambush for what, you killed their force. All 32 of them.

Number 33 is your captive. And you can speak latin.

>>15782708

The captive is calm as he's stripped, tossed a cloak he's naked underneath. His leather armor is of a great quality, burned into it is the insignia of the Empire. When you start pressuring him for information he gives it up rather readily.

He tells you that the scouting is that they've seen activity on the border, moving men and materials back and forth.

Sure we can but he hasn't seen a map of the Empire in all his years. He can read and write, all soldiers are required to learn that in the Empire.

As for Troop consistency, Legions are being raised.

Legions are a Thousand fighting men, plus supporting cast, so in total a full legion is about 1,5 k men.

Real troops 1,2 k. (The 200 are siege engineers etc etc. The other 300 cooks etc etc.)

>>15782738

They have a few sacred holidays, though none right now.

>>15782737

Done.

Also LOOT!

Leather Armors, some obviously damaged. Leather caps.
Short Swords (Gladius')
Crossbows & Steel tipped bolts.

>>15782738

Israel was invaded in the 1970's on Yom Kippur, a day of Jewish fasting
Hitler's Blitzkrieg took place during various winter holidays
I'm sure there are others

>>15782708
we do not ask "what do you know of our plans" however.

what we do, however is prepare for a little subterfuge.
We contact Hamish that another raiding party has been intercepted, and a captive is caught.
Explain that we need to know wherethe planned assault is to be, and propose that we carelessly interrogate the prisoner on "what do you know about the invasion of [a completely different region]?" - then have him moved to Highhall by cart in such a way that he can escape.
with any luck, he will get to empire forces, pass on the intelligence, and the empire will send reeinforcements in entirely the wrong direction.

>>15782755

So a ride straight through the Wild Lands (Dangerous) Or straight through the Empire City-States

Also not the best idea IMHO.

But it's up to all of ya. Yes/no?

>>15782755
savage barbarians can only be relied on to weaken our own leadership, in the long run. and we do not have the standing to speak for the kingdom, yet.

>>15782778
True, but what's stopping another county from doing it instead of us?

It's certainly a risk, but the reward could net us a very useful ally.

Also gonna start namefagging.

Okay guys..

I'm gonna end for tonight. I feel we got a LOT done tonight.

Post what you want done before Summer (WAR!) comes.

I'll see you again tomorrow (free from work, FUCK YEAR!)

invaders on pikes on the road to the empire border. send an un-liveried watchman up that way occasionally to see how long before the bodies vanish.

get the wife knocked up again before we ride to war.

make sure the war-wagons are operational, have a support logistics train, and that they are drilled.

Prepare to travel to Highhall to discuss the plans with Hamish. need to know if the planned invasion rides north, towards the City-states, or south towards the central empire. if the city states, we need to look at defence from counter-attack from the central empire, as our two feifs are on the frontline, and the first to be assaulted in such an eventuality.

>>15782880
Send a letter to the king to start sending fake supply caravans to the south or wherever we don't plan to attack.
Make sure the enemy spies get this info.
Secretly send troops and supplies to where we do plan to attack.

Just an idea, maybe we should start training war dogs. I think it was the Gauls who used them, but they were effective alongside shock troops to the Romans.
Also ask the beekeeper if there is any way to weaponize bees.

I know there is a drug in their stinger that causes other near by bees to go apeshit.

>>15782986
>>15782986
>weaponize bees

>mfw

Anybody else realize we still don't have a name, 5 threads in?

>>15783127
and I say we keep it that way.

the nameless dread knight of Tarkin.

I'm not going to read this entire thread or participate, but this looks really cool. I just want to show some love to the OP for doing something like this.

You may resume being knightly now.